What Do Latinos Eat For Thanksgiving?

As Thanksgiving approaches, the American table transforms into a mosaic of diverse flavors, with Latino households infusing the classic feast with their own distinctive twists and mouthwatering creations. So, what do Latinos eat for Thanksgiving? 

Latino families celebrate the holiday with a variety of traditional dishes that reflect their cultural heritage. Latino households opt to roast a pork loin, stuffed chicken, beef carne mechada, baked fish with olives and potatoes, roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or squash and other similar dishes. Of course, the classic turkey also makes an appearance, often spiced up with a unique marinade or stuffing. 

From appetizers that tantalize the taste buds to desserts that sweetly conclude the feast, each dish tells a story, reflecting the deep-rooted connection between food, family, and the spirit of gratitude. Let us explore the delightful fusion of flavors that transforms the Thanksgiving table into a celebration of diversity, unity, and the joy of sharing a meal that transcends cultural boundaries.

What do Latinos do for Thanksgiving?

Latino families celebrate Thanksgiving similarly to traditional American families but with a few variations in food and traditions. For instance, instead of just turkey, they might also have tamales, mole, rice and beans, fried plantains, pernil, and other Latin-inspired dishes. In some households, these dishes are prepared alongside the traditional Thanksgiving spread. While Thanksgiving isn't celebrated in Latin America, Latinos have embraced this holiday and made it their own by incorporating their own cultural foods and traditions into the celebration.

Here are some common elements and traditions observed by Latinos during Thanksgiving:

Family Gatherings

Latino families celebrate Thanksgiving by mixing American traditions with their own. Family gatherings are all about a big, diverse feast that combines Thanksgiving classics with Latin American favorites.

It's a lively, warm atmosphere that highlights the importance of family ties. During this special occasion, Latino families come together to share gratitude, stories, and blend cultural elements, creating a unique and enriching Thanksgiving experience. 

Thanksgiving isn't widely celebrated in Latin America, but families there focus on gratitude, family, and togetherness, adapting the celebration to their own cultural influences. Customs vary widely across Latin American countries, and if they do celebrate Thanksgiving, families might include their cultural dishes alongside or instead of traditional American ones, resulting in a distinct blend of flavors and traditions.

Traditional Thanksgiving Foods with a Latin Twist

While the iconic roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce are still central to the feast, Latinos often infuse their own cultural flavors into these dishes. Turkeys might be marinated or seasoned with spices common in Latin American cuisine, and stuffing might incorporate ingredients like chorizo or plantains.

Latin Appetizers

Before the main meal, families often savor a delightful array of Latin appetizers. These tantalizing bites add a burst of flavor and cultural richness, setting the stage for the festive feast to come. Typical appetizers include empanadas, tamales, tostones, and taquitos.

Side Dishes with Latin Flair

Traditional American side dishes get a Latin twist in many households. For instance, rice and beans may find their way onto the table, prepared in various styles such as arroz con gandules or black beans with sofrito.

Sauces and Condiments

Latinos are known for their love of flavorful condiments. Salsas, mole, and ají sauces may accompany the turkey, adding a delightful punch of spice and zest to the Thanksgiving meal.

Desserts that Blend Cultures

The dessert table is often a delightful mix of traditional American pies alongside Latin favorites. Tres leches cake, flan, and pumpkin empanadas might share space with apple and pecan pies.

Expressing Gratitude with Cultural Touches

Latinos often infuse their Thanksgiving celebration with cultural expressions of gratitude. Prayers, traditional music, and sharing personal stories of thanks are integral parts of the day.

Familial and Cultural Traditions

Some families incorporate specific cultural or familial traditions into their Thanksgiving celebrations. This could include dances, games, or rituals that are passed down through generations.

Volunteering and Community Engagement

Just like many other Americans, Latinos often engage in acts of kindness and community service during Thanksgiving. Volunteering at local charities or community events is a way for many to give back.

Reflecting on Heritage and Diversity

Thanksgiving serves as a time for Latinos to reflect on their diverse cultural backgrounds and each family member's unique contributions. It's a celebration of unity in diversity.

In essence, Latino families celebrate Thanksgiving by blending the quintessential American traditions with the rich tapestry of their cultural heritage, creating a feast that reflects the diversity and warmth of their communities.

What Do Latinos Eat For Thanksgiving?

Latinos celebrate Thanksgiving with a fusion of traditional American dishes and their own cultural influences. While the classic turkey and stuffing remain, Latinos often add unique flavors, incorporating dishes like seasoned turkeys, Latin appetizers, and desserts such as tres leches cake, creating a diverse and flavorful feast.

Appetizers:

Beef Empanadas

​​Indulge in the culinary bliss of beef empanadas—flaky pockets of golden perfection embracing a savory symphony of seasoned ground beef. The golden pastry shell, cradling the rich, aromatic filling, invites you to savor a medley of spices and textures in every bite. A handheld delight, these empanadas are a gastronomic journey that marries tradition with irresistible flavor, making them a beloved and satisfying treat for any occasion.

Pork Taquitos

Crispy and flavorful, pork taquitos are a taste sensation. Tender, seasoned pork is tightly rolled in corn tortillas, then fried to golden perfection. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, revealing the succulent, savory filling within. Served with a side of salsa or guacamole, these taquitos deliver a delightful fusion of textures and Mexican-inspired flavors in a convenient, handheld package.

Tostones

Puerto Rican tostones are a mouthwatering delight. Green plantains are sliced, double-fried to perfection, and then flattened and fried again. The result? A crispy, golden exterior that gives way to a tender, starchy center. Seasoned with a pinch of salt, these beloved Puerto Rican snacks are both a testament to culinary creativity and a flavorful celebration of the island's rich heritage.

Cheese Stuffed Jalapeño Chiles

Cheese-stuffed jalapeño chiles are a tantalizing blend of heat and creaminess. Fresh jalapeños, halved and deseeded, are generously filled with a luscious mixture of cream cheese or cheddar. Baked or grilled to perfection, these poppers deliver a spicy kick, balanced by the rich, melted cheese. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that ignites the taste buds with every savory bite.

Tomatoes Stuffed With Tuna Salad

Tomatoes stuffed with tuna salad present a refreshing and flavorful dish. Plump, ripe tomatoes are hollowed and filled with a zesty blend of tuna, mayonnaise, celery, and herbs. This delightful combination creates a light and protein-packed salad, offering a harmonious balance of textures and a burst of savory goodness. Ideal as a refreshing appetizer or a satisfying, health-conscious snack for any occasion.

Main Course:

Ground Turkey Tacos

Ground turkey tacos, as a main course for a Latino Thanksgiving, offer a delightful fusion of American and Latin flavors. Seasoned ground turkey, sautéed with aromatic spices, is lovingly nestled into warm corn tortillas.

Topped with vibrant garnishes like salsa, shredded lettuce, and tangy crema, these tacos embody a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, symbolizing unity and gratitude on this festive occasion.

Pavochon

Pavochon, a Latin-inspired Thanksgiving main course, is a succulent masterpiece. Pavochon, a whole turkey marinated in a rich blend of traditional Latin spices like adobo, garlic, and oregano, is slow-roasted to perfection.

The result is a juicy, flavorful bird with crispy, golden skin—a centerpiece that beautifully fuses Latino culinary heritage with the festive spirit of Thanksgiving.

Pernil

Pernil, a culinary jewel in Latino households, takes the spotlight as a festive main course. This slow-roasted pork shoulder is marinated for hours, often overnight, with a blend of garlic, citrus, herbs, and spices.

The result is a succulent and flavorful dish with a crispy, golden-brown skin. Pernil embodies the essence of celebration, serving as a cherished centerpiece in many Latin American gatherings, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving.

Arroz con Gandules

Arroz con Gandules is a beloved dish in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine, often gracing the Thanksgiving table with its vibrant flavors. This is a classic Puerto Rican dish made with rice and pigeon peas.

This traditional dish features rice cooked with pigeon peas, seasoned with sofrito (a flavorful blend of onions, garlic, peppers, and herbs), and often enhanced with savory meats or vegetables. The combination creates a fragrant and savory rice dish that embodies the essence of Latin culinary heritage, making it a cherished part of festive celebrations.

Pollo Guisado

This pollo guisado is a savory chicken stew, often served with a side of rice. Pollo guisado, a comforting and flavorful Latin American dish, especially adored during Thanksgiving, is a stewed chicken delight.

Succulent chicken pieces are slow-cooked in a savory broth enriched with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and an array of aromatic spices. The result is tender, flavorful chicken with a rich, hearty sauce that makes it a comforting and cherished main course, perfect for festive gatherings.

Lechon Asado

Lechon asado, a culinary gem in Cuban cuisine and a delightful centerpiece for festive occasions like Thanksgiving, showcases succulent roasted pork marinated in a garlic-citrus sauce. The marinade, often featuring garlic, sour orange juice, cumin, and oregano, infuses the meat with rich flavors. Slow-roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat tender, Lechon Asado embodies the essence of celebration and communal feasting in Latin American traditions.

Turkey Mole

Turkey mole, a captivating fusion of Thanksgiving tradition and Mexican culinary richness, features succulent turkey adorned with a velvety mole sauce. Mole, a complex blend of chili peppers, chocolate, spices, and more, lends a harmonious medley of sweet, savory, and spicy notes to the roasted turkey.

This dish beautifully intertwines the cultural threads of Thanksgiving and Mexican gastronomy, creating a festive and flavorful centerpiece for the holiday table.

Bistec Encebollado

Bistec encebollado, a flavorful and aromatic dish prominent in Latino cuisine, particularly during Thanksgiving, showcases tender steak adorned with a luscious onion sauce. The beef is often marinated, then seared to perfection and served with a savory sauce featuring sautéed onions, tomatoes, and spices. This dish embodies the heartiness and savory richness that characterizes festive meals, making it a delightful addition to Thanksgiving celebrations with a Latin touch.

Pasteles

Pasteles, a cherished dish in Puerto Rican cuisine, are a staple during festive occasions, including Thanksgiving. These savory delights consist of grated green plantains and/or yams, mixed with meat (often pork or chicken), olives, capers, and spices. The mixture is encased in banana leaves and steamed until the flavors meld into a delicious, tamale-like consistency. Pasteles represent the art of culinary craftsmanship and are a flavorful expression of Puerto Rican tradition during holiday feasts.

Tamales

Tamales, a hallmark of Latin American cuisine, make a festive appearance on Thanksgiving tables, enriching the celebration with their rich flavors and cultural significance. These steamed or boiled bundles of masa (a dough made from corn) are filled with various ingredients such as meats, cheese, or vegetables, often seasoned with aromatic spices.

Wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves, tamales are a labor of love, symbolizing unity and tradition, making them a cherished centerpiece for Thanksgiving gatherings with a Latin flair.

Desserts:

Tres Leches Cake

Tres leches cake, a luscious and indulgent delight, takes center stage as a quintessential Latino Thanksgiving dessert. This sponge cake is soaked in a three-milk mixture—evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream—resulting in a moist and decadent treat.

Topped with whipped cream or meringue, Tres Leches Cake is a sweet embodiment of gratitude, creating a perfect ending to a Thanksgiving feast with its rich, creamy, and satisfying layers.

Flan

Flan, a classic and elegant dessert, graces many Latino Thanksgiving tables with its velvety texture and caramelized sweetness. This custard, made from a mixture of eggs, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk, is baked until set and then inverted to reveal a silky caramel layer on top.

Its simplicity and richness make flan a timeless and beloved finale to a Latin-inspired Thanksgiving feast, embodying the essence of familial celebration and sweet indulgence.

Flancocho

Puerto Rican flancocho, a decadent fusion of flan and chocolate cake, serves as a luxurious and symbolic finale to a Latino Thanksgiving feast. This dessert embodies the warmth of familial gatherings, blending the creamy smoothness of flan with the rich decadence of chocolate cake.

The caramelized sweetness of the flan layer harmonizes with the moist chocolate cake, creating a sublime treat that encapsulates the essence of gratitude and celebration in every blissful bite. Elevate your Thanksgiving table with the cultural richness and indulgent flavors of Puerto Rican flancocho, where tradition and sweetness beautifully converge.

Pumpkin Empanadas

Pumpkin empanadas, a delightful fusion of autumn flavors and Latin American tradition, make for a scrumptious Thanksgiving dessert or snack. These hand-held pastries encase a spiced pumpkin filling, often sweetened with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.

The flaky crust adds a perfect crunch to the creamy pumpkin interior. Baked or fried to golden perfection, Pumpkin Empanadas are a sweet and comforting treat that brings a seasonal twist to the Latin American culinary repertoire, making them a delightful addition to Thanksgiving celebrations.

Sweet Potato Pies

Sweet potato pies, a Southern and Latino-influenced dessert, add a delectable touch to Thanksgiving tables. Featuring a velvety, spiced sweet potato filling in a flaky crust, these pies are a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful treat that beautifully represents the intersection of cultural traditions and seasonal indulgence during Thanksgiving celebrations.

Arroz Con Leche

Arroz con Leche, a beloved Latin American dessert, graces Thanksgiving tables with its comforting and creamy presence. This rice pudding combines short-grain rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, slowly cooked until the grains are tender and the mixture is rich and sweet.

Garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, Arroz con Leche is a nostalgic and heartwarming conclusion to a Latino-inspired Thanksgiving feast, offering a taste of tradition and familial warmth.

Dulce de Leche Cortada

Dulce de Leche Cortada is a unique and delightful Latin American dessert that involves curdling sweetened condensed milk to create a sweet, caramel-flavored curdled milk pudding. It's a distinct variation of dulce de leche, offering a different texture and flavor profile.

Served chilled, Dulce de Leche Cortada is a creamy and indulgent treat that adds a touch of cultural richness to the Thanksgiving dessert spread.

Cinnamon Churros

Cinnamon churros, a delightful treat with Spanish and Latin American origins, bring warmth and sweetness to any Thanksgiving celebration. These fried dough pastries, dusted with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar, offer a crispy exterior and a soft, doughy interior.

Served warm and often accompanied by a dipping sauce like chocolate or caramel, cinnamon churros provide a festive and satisfying finale to a Thanksgiving feast with a touch of cultural flair.

Alfajores

Alfajores, a delectable Latin American treat, are a delightful addition to Thanksgiving dessert tables. These delicate sandwich cookies consist of two buttery, crumbly cookies filled with dulce de leche, creating a perfect balance of sweetness.

Often coated in powdered sugar or coconut, Alfajores offers a rich and indulgent experience, representing the sweet side of Latin American culinary traditions during the festive Thanksgiving season.